Launch of the BMW M5

Photos by BMW and Munich Automobiles - 20 Jan 2012

BMW and M dealer Munich Automobiles recently held a week-long, lavish launch event to welcome the new generation M5.

The beast has landed

Last week saw the launch of the new BMW M5 in Singapore at a purpose built structure next to the Esplanade. This fifth generation of the world’s most successful premium high-performance saloon of the executive class will be sold exclusively through Munich Automobiles Pte Ltd.

The new BMW M5 is a high-performance performance saloon whose exceptional dynamic potential is geared squarely to the demands of track use yet which also sets a new benchmark in everyday driving with its supreme touring comfort and innovative equipment features. It also sets the pace in its class in terms of efficiency. The car’s history of success in a segment founded more than 25 years ago by the original BMW M5 is set to continue in thrillingly contemporary style.

“Built on the tradition of its predecessors, the new BMW M5 has once again redefined the performance experience available in a saloon car. Not only does the new BMW M5 possess state-of-the-art technology and astonishingly dynamic handling for which BMW M cars are well-known for, it also stirs the passion of keen aficionados for top driving performance and blends it with the universal qualities of a top-class premium saloon,” said Mr Neil Fiorentinos, Managing Director of BMW Group Asia.

Under the bonnet of the new BMW M5 lies a newly developed, high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo (consisting of Twin Scroll Twin Turbo technology, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, High Precision Injection petrol direct injection and VALVETRONIC fully variable valve control), maximum output of 560bhp at 6,000-7,000 rpm and peak torque of 680Nm between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. The instantaneous power delivery and sustained thrust familiar from M cars is the key to acceleration of 0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle stands at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres (CO2 emissions: 232 g/km).

“The new BMW M5 is equipped with the most powerful engine ever fitted in a series-produced model from BMW M GmbH, the innovative Active M Differential which optimizes power transfer to the rear wheels. Coupled with extensive racing expertise accumulated over the years, the combination has secured the new BMW M5 with a dominant position in the high-performance saloon market,” added Mr Fiorentinos. “That said, it is important to highlight that the car is also relatively fuel-efficient thanks to Efficient Dynamics. While output has increased by around 10 per cent and maximum torque is up by more than 30 per cent, the new BMW M5 burns over 30 per cent less fuel than its predecessor.”

The significantly improved balance between the performance-focused M experience and the car’s fuel consumption stems from the exceptionally impressive efficiency of the new V8 engine and from far-reaching Efficient Dynamics technology including the Auto Start-Stop function in conjunction with the standard seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission Drivelogic. In order to channel the engine’s imposing power development into inspiring performance characteristics, the new BMW M5 boasts chassis technology – including electronically controlled dampers, M-specific Servotronic steering, a stability control system with M Dynamic Mode and high-performance compound brakes – developed on the back of racing expertise and tuned to the output profile of the powerplant.

This technology combines with model-specific design features – which make a direct contribution to optimizing the supply of cooling air and enhancing aerodynamic characteristics – to create the conceptual harmony typical of BMW M cars. The precise interplay of the drive system, chassis and design has been refined in extensive and detailed testing on the Nordschleife circuit at the Nürburgring, to ensure unbeatable longitudinal and lateral acceleration, handling characteristics and braking performance.

The interior design, control concept and innovative equipment features of the new car also play their part in creating the exclusive M experience. Sports seats, an M leather steering wheel, and an M-specific instrument cluster and centre console lend the cockpit a classical sports car feeling. For the first time, two M Drive buttons have been fitted as standard for the driver to call up the ideal car set-up for the situation at hand. High-quality, precisely finished materials, generous levels of space and the extensive range of equipment fitted as standard generate the premium ambience – laced with cutting-edge luxury – of a BMW 5 Series model. Added to which, customers can also give their car the personal touch, since virtually the full range of options for the BMW 5 Series Saloon are also available for the M5, including a host of driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive. The M5 retails for $482,800 inclusive of COE in Singapore.